Auld Lang Scream: 4 New Year’s Horror Deep Cuts Streaming Now For Free
As the clock strikes midnight and the new year begins, most people celebrate with joy, hope, and resolutions. But for horror fans, it’s the perfect time to dive into the darker side of the festivities. There’s nothing like a good horror movie to set the tone for an unforgettable start to the year. So dim the lights, grab some popcorn, think up some resolutions, and prepare for some New Year-themed deep cuts. After all, who says you can’t start the year with a little fright?
Countdown (2012)
Directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya
Where You Can Watch: Tubi and PLEX
Let me start by saying that if you’re not a fan of reading subtitles, then this horror film is NOT for you! Countdown focuses on three Thai teenagers living in New York. It’s New Year’s Eve and the trio wants to celebrate the night with some special party favors. With no luck scoring anything from a friend, Jack (the childish one of the bunch) discovers a torn-up business card and contacts Jesus. What starts off as a night of fun, turns into a night of terror as Jesus has plans of his own for the youngsters. Now, I’ll be honest with you lovely readers, this movie did drag on a bit and could use some sprucing up, but David Asavanond’s portrayal of Jesus won me over and kept me engaged. His performance alone is the main reason why I added this movie to the list.
Steel Trap (2007)
Directed by Luis Carmara
Where You Can Watch: Freevee, Tubi, and PLEX
If you’re a fan of the Saw franchise, then you might enjoy this one! Steel Trap lures viewers into a deadly maze of puzzles and paranoia. When a group of strangers receives mysterious invitations via text message to a VIP party in an abandoned high-rise, they quickly discover they’re not there to celebrate—but to pay for their sins. Though the dialogue and character development can feel thin at times, the film serves as a cautionary tale for those who dare to mix ego with intrigue, proving that sometimes, the cost of a VIP ticket is your life.
New Year, New You (2018)
Directed by Sophia Takal
Where Can You Watch: Hulu
If you have Hulu, then I’m sure you’ve seen Into the Dark pop up on the home screen. New Year, New You is the fourth episode of the show’s first season. A group of old friends reunites on New Year’s Eve for a much-anticipated girls’ night. Eager to reminisce about the past, the night unfolds, long-buried resentments begin to surface, and the party turns into a night of literal backstabbing. With its commentary on vanity, envy, and the toxic side of ambition, New Year, New You is a timely reminder that while you can resolve to reinvent yourself, your past—and your friends—might have other plans.
Bloody New Year (1987)
Directed by Norman J. Warren
Where Can You Watch: Tubi and PLEX
While checking out Tubi, the cover art for Bloody Near Year caught my eye, so of course I had to check it out. The movie follows a group of friends taking refuge in an island hotel decorated for New Year’s. The problem is, it’s early summer, and soon enough, even the walls themselves are striking out against them. Norman’s bizarre cocktail of 80s camp, supernatural mayhem, and unrelenting weirdness defies horror conventions by mixing haunted house tropes, slasher vibes, and surreal time loops into a single chaotic package. Now, the majority of this film doesn’t make any sense but the charm lies in its sheer audacity and unapologetic commitment in being entertaining.
As the new year unfolds, these horror films offer a perfect escape into the eerie and unexpected. Each story captures a different facet of New Year’s terror, from suspenseful countdowns to vengeful hauntings and chaotic fun. Whether you’re watching alone or with fellow horror enthusiasts, these films are sure to keep you entertained. So toast to the thrills, dim the lights, and let the fear take over—because every great year starts with a little excitement, and for horror fans, a touch of terror. Here’s to a scream-worthy start to the new year!
Categorized:Editorials